Looking After Three Generations

Diana, 46, has spent much of her life caring for the people around her.

After leaving an abusive marriage in 2019, she raised her daughter, Alya*, on her own while working in the food and beverage, security, and cleaning sectors. She did what many parents do to provide, taking on whatever work she could find to keep her family going.

Today, Diana’s role looks different. Much of her time is spent caring for her five-year-old grandson, Adam*, and supporting Alya as they work towards a more stable future together.

Family remains Diana’s priority. “I just want us to have enough to get by and move forward,” she says.

A Young Family Carrying Heavy Responsibilities

Her daughter, Alya, became a mother at just 15 years old. While many teenagers were focused on school and friendships, she was learning how to care for a newborn son.

Adam arrived prematurely and has faced health challenges from the start. He lives with a congenital heart condition and developmental concerns that require ongoing attention and care. Medical appointments, daily supervision, and caregiving responsibilities are now part of the family’s routine.

Diana has stepped in to help care for Adam, providing the support that allows Alya to focus on building a future for herself and her son.

The close bond between the three generations has helped them through difficult periods, but it has also meant that when one family member struggles, the effects are felt by everyone in the household.

When Health Makes Work Impossible

Over the years, Diana’s health has gradually worsened. She lives with asthma and kidney stones, conditions that affect her daily life and make it difficult to sustain regular employment.

Although she has always worked when she was able, she can no longer keep up with the physical demands of the jobs she once relied on. Simple daily tasks can be exhausting, and her health limitations have significantly reduced the family’s ability to earn an income.

At the same time, the financial assistance she previously received has ceased.

The household now survives largely on the modest contribution provided by Alya’s fiancé. With limited income coming in, everyday expenses have become increasingly difficult to manage. Utility and broadband arrears have accumulated, while groceries, household necessities, and caregiving costs continue each month.

Taking Steps Towards Stability

Even with these challenges, Diana and Alya continue to look for ways to improve their circumstances.

Alya is actively exploring employment opportunities with the support of a Family Coach and Career Coach. She is also awaiting the outcome of her financial assistance application while working towards securing a more sustainable source of income.

Meanwhile, Diana continues to care for Adam and manage the household as best she can.

“We’re trying to do what we can every day,” Diana shares. “We just need some support while we get back on our feet.”

Their goal is to regain financial stability and become self-sufficient. Temporary assistance would help them get through this period while they work towards that goal.

*Names have been changed to protect the identities and privacy of the family members.

What We Are Raising Funds For

The family is seeking support to cover urgent household expenses and basic living costs over the next three months.

The funds raised will be used for:

1. $430.64 in outstanding utility arrears
2. $456.79 in broadband arrears
3. $2,700 for essential living expenses ($900 per month for three months)

These living expenses include groceries, household necessities, toiletries, communication costs, and caregiving-related needs for Adam.

How Your Support Will Help

The total fundraising goal of $3,652* will provide Diana and her family with a temporary safety net while they work towards greater stability.

Clearing the utility and broadband arrears will help the family avoid further disruptions and allow them to maintain essential services at home. The support for daily living expenses will ease immediate financial pressures, giving Alya time to continue her employment search and follow through on the plans she is making with her Family Coach and Career Coach.

Most importantly, this assistance will allow the family to focus on caring for Adam and rebuilding their financial footing without the constant worry of how they will meet their most basic needs each month.

* The total campaign goal includes a payment processing fee of 1.8%